Ed Scott

London-based trail runner

4 trail running spots around London

Posted by on March 17, 2021

Think Londoners have to miss out on great trail running? Think again.

Despite being the UK’s biggest city, London is within easy reach of some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned veteran, a great trail run is never more than a train ride away.

To help you plan your next adventure, I’ve found some of the best trail running spots around London. Take a look!

Wendover Woods

Female trail runners climbing a steep hill in Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire.

With its short, sharp climbs and long, runnable descents, Wendover Woods is a trail runner’s playground. Doug, Jamie, and the rest of the Venture Trails Collective provide regular guided runs exploring the woods, catering to all paces and abilities. Their Discover Venture series is designed with beginners in mind, and covers everything you need to know to get started on the trails.

If you fancy testing the waters, Wendover Woods Parkrun is a free 5k held every Saturday. Just show up with your barcode and run! 

Nearest station: Wendover – 50 mins from Marylebone

Trail runners in Wendover Woods, Buckinghamshire.

Ditchling Beacon 

Group of trail runners on the South Downs, Sussex.

If it’s wide open spaces you’re after, look no further than Ditchling Beacon! The third highest point on the South Downs offers stunning views of the surrounding Sussex countryside. Chris and the Runaway Adventures crew host social runs on Ditchling Beacon year-round. Runners are split into small guided groups to ensure nobody gets left behind out on the trails, and there’s always time to spare for a coffee afterwards.

Nearest station: Hassocks – 55 mins from London Bridge

Trail runners on the South Downs, Sussex.

Surrey Hills 

Female trail runner climbing a hill in the Surrey Hills.

The beautiful Surrey Hills feature some of the best trails to be found anywhere in the UK. If you want to try out something a bit different, Matt from Running Adventures hosts regular evening runs in the area. These sunset sessions provide a friendly environment to try out a spot of night-time trail running. 

Matt himself is an experienced ultramarathon runner, so you’ll be in safe hands. Torches at the ready! 

Nearest station: Guildford – 35 mins from Waterloo

Group of trail runners running in the Surrey Hills at night with head torches.

Ashridge 

Female trail runners in Ashridge in the Chiltern Hills.

Nestled in the gorgeous Chiltern Hills, the Ashridge estate houses thousands of acres of beautifully preserved countryside. Whatever your level of fitness, Simon and his team at Run the Wild can help you explore this remarkable landscape. They offer guided social runs around Ashridge’s well-groomed trails, including a regular women-only option led by trail guides Lucy, Katie, and Sophie.

Nearest station: Berkhamsted – 30 minutes from London Euston

Female trail runners in the English countryside, Hertfordshire.

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4 Terrific Trail Running Spots Around London
Ed Scott
Think Londoners have to miss out on the great outdoors? Think again. Despite being the UK’s biggest city, London is within easy reach of some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes.
05/05/2009





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